Like London, giant Ferris wheel to be built in Kolkata

With the contruction of the Kolata Eye, Kolkata will get a second iconic sructure. There's a new structure that would soon challenge the iconic Howrah bridge in Kolkata: Modelled on the famous 'London Eye' in the UK capital, a 'Kolkata Eye' will soon dot the banks of the Hooghly river.

The Ferris wheel, to be reportedly constructed at Millenium Park in the West Bengal capital, will provide a magnificent view of Kolkata from a height of 120 metres. "It will be an icon of the great city of Kolkata and will enrich the ongoing river-front beautification project," chief minister Mamata Banerjee said.

In a Facebook post on Twitter, Banerjee said the project was a first of its kind in size and magnitude in India. "It is already underway and is expected to be ready in a year's time," she said in the Facebook post.

The contract for the Ferris wheel - being constructed by the government to boost tourism in the city -was awarded to a UK-based company on Wednesday, a source told news agency PTI said.

'Kolkata Eye' will cost the state government Rs 300 crore, and will have 36 air-conditioned capsules, which would rotate slowly affording a wonderful view of the skyline.

The 135-metre tall London Eye is located on the south bank of the Thames river in London, and was opened to public in 1999. (With PTI inputs)